For those unfamiliar with Michael Simon’s design aesthetic, think back to those comfy crocheted sweaters and his intricately patterned creations of the 1980’s. You know, the type of sweaters the Brat Pack rocked in St. Elmo’s Fire and Sixteen Candles. Not your decade? Well, how about Simon’s 90’s embellished, conversational knitwear that were pieces of art. And who can forget the 90’s Neiman Marcus and Barney’s campaigns with top models luxuriating in automobile and animal-inspired knitwear?

Eighties and 90’s collections aside, Michael Simon has put his distinctive wow factor into his secondary line, Smitten. “For Fall/Winter 2009, we wanted a more contemporary division where there was less embellishment. The concept of Smitten revolves around my love of romance comic books from the 40’s and 50’s. We use that concept in marketing and incorporate some of the images from that period into what we are doing.”

Michael believes shoppers have a renewed interest in 1940’s and 50’s American retrospective because that era represented a less complicated time when clothing was more personal and reflected a hands-on detail. This perspective is exemplified in his flirty tunic tops that hint at a nascent sexiness.

For his Spring/Summer 2010 collection, Michael forges ahead to the glittery 80’s for inspiration. Though his aesthetic is still youthfully flirty, this collection speaks to the confident young woman who uses her fashion statement to show the bit of rebellion inside. Michael Simon’s Spring/Summer 2010 collection includes hand-embroidered, studded jerseys, reversible cardigans, feminine cotton silhouettes, and 80’s exposed zippers and hand-beaded, Native American–inspired tunic looks that can work as casual day wear or be dressed up for a night on the town. Color palettes range from deep coral to Japanese cotton white to midnight black.

With his Smitten collection, Michael Simon dresses young women for every highlight of their day, from casual work attire to a fashionable night of revelry and laughter. Ah, to be so young again!

Michael Simon’s collections can be found at Barneys, Bloomingdales, Neiman Marcus, Fred Segal, National Jean, and Piperlime. For information about Smitten, go to smittennyc.com.